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Aesthetic Surgery

Ear Reshaping (Otoplasty)

Otoplasty is surgery that brings forward-angled ears closer to the head through cartilage reshaping. The aim is a natural ear position, close to symmetry.

  • Free assessment
  • Same-day reply
  • Bespoke plan
1-2 hours
Procedure time
Local / sedation
Anaesthesia
5-7 days
Back to work
A few weeks
Headband period
Hidden behind the ear
Incision site
Generally permanent
Result duration
Sterile, single-use instrumentsBoth ears planned together before the procedureKey steps performed by the surgeonIncision hidden in the fold behind the earFollow-up after the procedureWritten aftercare instructions
Aesthetic Surgery

What is otoplasty and how is it done?

The incision is usually hidden behind the ear; the ear cartilage is repositioned with permanent sutures and reshaped where needed. It is the ear's angle to the head and its folds that are adjusted, not its size.

Both ears are assessed together, aiming for near-symmetry. After the procedure, wearing a protective band or headband for a period is recommended.

  • Incision concealed behind the ear
  • Cartilage-preserving reshaping
  • Both ears planned together with symmetry in mind

Cartilage-preserving technique vs the older cutting method

Cartilage-preserving suture technique
Older cartilage-cutting method
Approach to cartilage
Cartilage is preserved and reshaped with permanent sutures
Cartilage is cut and thinned to form the shape
Ear folds
Natural folds are formed with a soft transition
Cut edges can sometimes leave sharper lines
Incision site
The incision is hidden in the natural fold behind the ear
The incision is also behind the ear, with more tissue work
Goal
The angle to the head is adjusted, not the size
The shape is changed by cutting the cartilage

The right method depends on a person's cartilage; the surgeon decides at the examination.

Suitability

Is otoplasty right for you?

It is considered for people bothered by the position of their ears whose ear development is complete. It can also be performed in children at suitable ages; timing and suitability are clarified at the doctor's examination.

  • Prominent / forward-angled ear position
  • Completed ear development
  • Realistic expectations and general fitness

Is it right for you? Find out with a free analysis.

Free Analysis

How healing progresses

  1. 0-3 days

    First days

    The ears are wrapped in a protective band. Mild swelling and tenderness are normal; the head is kept raised.

  2. 5-7 days

    Back to work

    Most people return to daily life and work in this window. Your doctor checks the sutures and aftercare.

  3. A few weeks

    Headband period

    A headband is worn at night, or for as long as your doctor advises. This protects the ears' new position.

  4. 6-12 months

    Settling period

    Swelling fully resolves and the ear's final position becomes clear. Healing speed varies from person to person.

Steps of the process

  1. 01

    Free assessment

    We listen to you and your expectations. A first review is made from photos and your questions are answered.

  2. 02

    Bespoke plan

    Both ears are studied together and a near-symmetry goal is set. The anaesthesia choice is clarified at the examination.

  3. 03

    Procedure day

    The procedure is done under appropriate anaesthesia. The incision is hidden behind the ear and the cartilage is shaped with permanent sutures.

  4. 04

    First aftercare

    The ears are wrapped in a protective band. Written aftercare instructions are given and what to watch for is explained.

  5. 05

    Follow-up

    Check-ups are planned; you can reach the team about the headband period and any questions.

What the care package covers

Assessment and plan

Free first assessment and planning of both ears with a symmetry goal.

Surgical procedure

Ear reshaping under appropriate anaesthesia, using the cartilage-preserving suture technique.

Protective band and kit

The post-procedure band that protects the ears and the recommended aftercare items.

Written aftercare instructions

A step-by-step written guide explaining what to watch for at home.

Follow-up visits

Check-ups during healing and a way to reach us with your questions.

Safety steps we follow

Sterile, single-use instruments

The instruments used are sterile; where appropriate, they are single-use.

Photographic planning

Before the procedure, both ears are compared with photos and the plan is reviewed together.

Key steps by the surgeon

Defining steps, such as the reshaping, are performed by the surgeon.

Written aftercare

Written instructions are given at discharge; you know when to call.

Frequently asked questions

Questions on your mind

Will the scar be visible?

Because the incision is hidden in the natural fold behind the ear, the scar is usually not noticeable; healing varies by person.

Is it a painful procedure?

It is performed under appropriate anaesthesia; tenderness afterwards is usually manageable and eases within a few days.

Is the result permanent?

The cartilage is shaped with lasting techniques; the result is generally permanent, though healing and tissue characteristics can differ from person to person.

When can I get back to normal?

Return to daily life is usually within a few days to a week; your doctor will tell you how long to wear the protective band/headband.

Ask the doctor

Get a free assessment

Share your photos and the doctor will prepare a plan and roadmap for your case.

  • Free pre-assessment
  • Bespoke plan
  • No pressure, clear information

Istanbul, Türkiye

info@sercanaslanturkey.com

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